Cultural Delights and Iftar Feasts: Your Guide to Customs and What to Do in Ramadan Month

Experience the magic of the UAE during the holy month of Ramadan! In this guide, we'll take you on a cultural journey through the United Arab Emirates, sharing insider tips and hidden gems. Plus, we've prepared a specially curated Dubai itinerary to help you navigate the best things to do during Ramadan!

Ramadan holds great significance in the UAE, as it is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. It's the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, considered the year's holiest month. It marks the period when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad on the night of Laylat Al Qadr, one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. 

During this sacred month, Muslims around the world observe fasting from sunrise to sunset as one of the five pillars of Islam. In the course of this celebration, the country comes alive with a host of cultural practices and deeply rooted Emirati heritage traditions that bring out a sense of community, compassion, and gratitude.

This 2024 Ramadan officially begins on March 10 and ends on April 8. Many businesses, including restaurants and shops, have adjusted hours during this time. But there are still plenty of things to do in Ramadan for travelers eager to explore the wonders of the UAE!

For 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the new moon, Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. But fear not, because there are two main moments of culinary delight that break the fasting period: Suhoor and Iftar!

Suhoor, also known as Sehri, is a nourishing pre-dawn feast that fuels Muslims for the day ahead. It's a time to indulge in hearty meals of vegetables, fruits, rice, and meat or their preference and gather with loved ones to prepare for the fast.

But the real excitement begins at Iftar, when the sun sets and the fast is broken. It's usually a time of communal bonding, filled with family, friends, and a selection of delicious dishes to enjoy after a day of fasting. It's also a time of gratitude and reflection that embodies the spirit of Ramadan.

Not sure what to do in Ramadan month? Don't worry—non-Muslim visitors aren't required to fast, but it's a good idea to join in the spirit of the occasion by refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. This simple gesture shows respect for those observing the fast.

Public behavior also tends to be more subdued as people focus on fasting and engaging in spiritual activities. So, embrace the Emirati way of life by dressing modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and being mindful of your surroundings. 

One of the advantages of traveling during Ramadan is the opportunity to enjoy popular attractions with fewer crowds. You'll have more time and space to fully appreciate the beauty of these remarkable places—whether you're exploring the historic Al Fahidi District or the stunning Dubai Mall. 

Plus, with special offerings at restaurants and hotels, you'll never be stumped for what to do in Ramadan month with exclusive experiences and menus. If you've got a sweet tooth, Bombay Borough's Passionfruit Vimto Sorbet, part of their exclusive Iftar Dastarkhwan menu, is a must-try!

Begin your Dubai adventure by discovering what to do in Ramadan month at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). Located in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the beautifully restored wind tower house sets the stage for various activities, including basic Arabic classes, heritage tours of significant sites, and guided mosque visits to learn about Islamic practices.

Next, take a guided tour of the majestic Jumeirah Mosque, which runs six days a week at 10 am. It's one of the best things to do in Ramadan! This magnificent mosque, built entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid tradition, features towering twin minarets (a slender tower part of a mosque) that frame a large central dome. Embracing an 'Open Doors, Open Minds' policy, the mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths to admire its surroundings and learn about Islam and the local culture. 

Beyond what to do in Ramadan month, visit the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort to learn more about Dubai's rich heritage. As you step inside the oldest existing building in the city, which dates back to 1787, history comes alive through colorful dioramas and enlightening historic exhibits. Once a monarch's base, fortified residence, weapons arsenal, and prison, the fort was renovated in 1971 to become the Dubai Museum—showcasing the city's rich history and original heritage.

Next, venture into the bustling Dubai Mall, the ultimate shopping destination. Located next to the iconic Burj Khalifa, this sprawling complex has over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores, and tons of dining options spread across more than 1 million square meters. Fashion enthusiasts will be delighted by over 70 signature outlets, including Bloomingdale's and Galeries Lafayette, offering the latest collections from iconic brands like Versace and Burberry.

Spice things up at the Spice Souk, where your senses will be treated with colorful sights and exotic aromas of spices from around the world. As you wander through this bustling market, be sure to chat with the friendly vendors who are always eager to share their knowledge and recipe tips. From aromatic herbs to fragrant teas, there's something for every culinary enthusiast to discover here!

Tick off your list of what to do in Ramadan month by visiting a local mosque for the Tarawih prayer. Feel the sense of unity and peace as you join fellow worshipers in this special congregational prayer. Wrap up your day with a visit to the enchanting Quranic Park. From lush gardens to interactive exhibits showcasing the remarkable events of the Holy Quran, there's so much to explore and learn here.

Embrace cultural diversity, seek meaningful travel experiences, and let the spirit of Ramadan inspire you to explore the hidden gems of the United Arab Emirates!